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Pulpit Reflections

Accept God’s grace and peace

By Pastor Nora MendykUnited Methodist Church, Grant

Grace and peace to you all! I say this because this is what has been extended to my husband, Dave, and me as we arrived in Grant in July. Grace, as we attempt to remember names and peace, as everyone has been so welcoming towards us. God’s grace and peace are also extended to us through Jesus Christ. His grace is fully given to us as we look to Him as our Savior. His peace is a wonderful by-product of walking in His presence throughout the day. Many of us proclaim Jesus as our Savior, but do not take full advantage of the peace that can be ours. We deprive ourselves of grace when we do not confess our sin. We forfeit peace when we ignore God’s leading. Not taking full advantage of God’s grace is like having a time share you never use. Not taking full advantage of God’s peace is like discovering you’ve purchased a winning lotto ticket that you can’t find. God’s grace and peace are blocked when we believe a lie. Satan would like us to believe that we are unforgiveable, that there is sin so bad that we can’t even approach our Lord. This lie keeps us surrendered in bondage. Jesus came that we may have life and to live it abundantly. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 There is nothing so bad that Jesus won’t forgive. His arms are outstretched, beckoning us to run to Him. God’s power through the Holy Spirit can break any shackle that binds us. The Holy Spirit does battle for us in spiritual warfare. Jesus has already won the battle as He gave up His life for us. Living in bondage need not be our way of life. Jesus’ arms are outstretched, beckoning us to live in grace and peace. Grace and peace to you all!